By Thompson ABISOLA
The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) says it has recently mapped the entire electricity network in South-East using Geographic Information System (GIS) to improve its operations.
The Manager of GIS in EEDC, Mr Uche Anyalewechi, said this while speaking on activities by the EEDC to commemorate this year’s edition of GIS Day.
The GIS Day, observed every Nov. 14, is an annual event to celebrate the technology of Geographic Information System and its enormous benefits to modern development and science.
The theme for this year’s GIS Day at EEDC is: “Driving Efficiency in Power Distribution through GIS.”
Anyalewechi, therefore, explained how the company was taking advantage of the GIS technology to improve the reach of network within its service areas.
He said that “with the aid of GIS technology, we have efficiently mapped our entire electrical network system, updated our customer database and captured all electrical assets within our network with each part of the infrastructure registered on the map.
“The project is expected to improve decision making in the organisation’s operations.”
The manager recalled that EEDC commenced the GIS project early last year and the effort had attracted commendation from National Electricity Regulation Commission (NERC), noting that the commission described it as “benchmark which other Discos will be required to emulate.”
He explained that “the GIS project, which is of immense benefit to both EEDC and its customers, also aimed at facilitating comprehensive metering of electricity customers and for easy identification of electrical assets and their state.
“The project will also help in identification of existing customers and make adequate planning for potential customers and network expansion.
“Others benefits include: improved power supply and quick response to faults; effective power distribution and monitoring through remote sensing; prompt identification of damaged and non-functional equipment for replacement, as well as improved customer service delivery.”
The activities lined up by the GIS Unit of EEDC to celebrate the GIS Day include a talk show on GIS and its benefits and a video presentation of network maps, emphasising how it supports the business and its operations.
